Psychological Therapy for Children, Young People and Adults
At Joanne Wright Psychology, we provide compassionate, confidential and evidence-based psychological therapy for children, young people and adults experiencing emotional, behavioural or psychological difficulties. Therapy is tailored to the individual, taking account of their experiences, strengths, relationships, communication style and personal goals.
People seek therapy for many different reasons. You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, low in mood, affected by trauma or finding it difficult to manage relationships, work, education or family life. You do not need to be in crisis or have a formal diagnosis to benefit from psychological support.
Our aim is to provide a safe, respectful and non-judgemental space where you can better understand what you are experiencing, develop helpful coping strategies and work towards meaningful and lasting change.
What is psychological therapy?
Psychological therapy involves working collaboratively with a qualified psychologist to understand thoughts, emotions, behaviours, relationships and life experiences.
Rather than offering generic advice, therapy explores the factors contributing to your current difficulties and identifies approaches that are appropriate for your individual needs. This may involve understanding patterns that have developed over time, processing difficult experiences, strengthening emotional regulation or developing more helpful ways of responding to challenges.
Therapy can support both symptom reduction and greater self-understanding. The work may focus on a specific problem or explore broader patterns affecting several areas of life.
What can psychological therapy help with?
Psychological therapy may be helpful for people experiencing:
- anxiety or excessive worry;
- panic attacks;
- low mood or depression;
- stress and emotional overwhelm;
- trauma or distressing past experiences;
- low self-esteem;
- confidence difficulties;
- grief, loss or significant life changes;
- relationship or family difficulties;
- anger or emotional-regulation difficulties;
- perfectionism;
- work-related stress or burnout;
- sleep difficulties;
- school or university-related anxiety;
- social anxiety;
- health-related anxiety;
- phobias or fears;
- difficulties following an ADHD or autism diagnosis;
- challenges connected with parenting or caring responsibilities.
This list is not exhaustive. People often experience several overlapping difficulties, and therapy can be adapted to address the overall pattern rather than treating each concern in isolation.
Who is psychological therapy for?
Therapy is available for:
- children;
- teenagers and young people;
- adults;
- parents and carers;
- neurodivergent individuals;
- people adjusting to a recent diagnosis;
- people experiencing a period of change, stress or uncertainty.
The way therapy is delivered will depend on the person’s age, development, communication needs and circumstances.
Psychological therapy for children
Children may not always have the words to explain how they are feeling. Emotional distress can sometimes be expressed through behaviour, physical symptoms, withdrawal, sleep problems or difficulties at school.
Therapy for children may support concerns such as:
- anxiety and fears;
- emotional outbursts;
- low confidence;
- school avoidance;
- friendship difficulties;
- family changes;
- bereavement;
- trauma;
- difficulties with emotional regulation;
- worries associated with ADHD, autism or SEND.
The approach may include age-appropriate conversation, visual tools, creative activities and practical strategies. Parents or carers may be involved where appropriate, while still respecting the child’s need for trust and privacy.
Psychological therapy for teenagers and young people
Adolescence and early adulthood can involve significant emotional, social and educational pressure. Young people may experience anxiety, low mood, identity concerns, relationship difficulties, academic stress or uncertainty about their future.
Therapy can provide a confidential space to:
- explore difficult emotions;
- understand patterns of thinking and behaviour;
- develop coping strategies;
- strengthen confidence and self-esteem;
- manage school, college or university demands;
- improve emotional regulation;
- process difficult or traumatic experiences;
- understand neurodivergence and identity;
- prepare for greater independence.
The pace and style of therapy are adapted to the young person’s preferences and communication needs.
Psychological therapy for adults
Adults seek psychological therapy for many reasons. Some are experiencing a recent difficulty, while others want to understand longstanding patterns that have affected their relationships, wellbeing or confidence.
Therapy may help adults who are:
- feeling anxious, low or emotionally overwhelmed;
- struggling with work-related stress;
- affected by trauma or adverse experiences;
- experiencing relationship difficulties;
- coping with grief or loss;
- managing parenting or caring pressures;
- adjusting to an ADHD or autism diagnosis;
- feeling stuck in unhelpful patterns;
- experiencing burnout;
- struggling with self-criticism or perfectionism;
- wanting to improve emotional wellbeing and resilience.
Therapy offers time to pause, reflect and understand what is happening beneath the immediate symptoms.
How Psychological Therapy Works
1. Initial enquiry
The process begins when you contact Joanne Wright Psychology.
You can briefly explain who the therapy is for and the main difficulties being experienced. You do not need to provide a full history during the initial enquiry.
You will receive information about:
- appointment availability;
- fees;
- session format;
- online or in-person options;
- insurance arrangements where applicable;
- the next steps.
2. Initial consultation
The first appointment provides an opportunity to discuss:
- what has brought you to therapy;
- how the difficulties are affecting everyday life;
- relevant background information;
- previous support or treatment;
- what you hope to achieve;
- whether psychological therapy appears suitable.
Joanne will explain how she works and answer any questions you may have. This appointment also helps establish whether another service, such as assessment, EMDR or post-diagnostic support, may be more appropriate.
3. Psychological assessment and formulation
Therapy begins with building a shared understanding of the difficulties.
A psychological formulation brings together relevant information about:
- current symptoms;
- past experiences;
- relationships;
- coping strategies;
- triggers;
- beliefs and expectations;
- strengths and protective factors;
- environmental pressures;
- factors that may be maintaining the problem.
The formulation is not intended to label or blame. It provides a working explanation that helps guide therapy and may change as new understanding develops.
4. Agreeing therapy goals
You and Joanne will agree what you would like to work towards.
Therapy goals might include:
- reducing anxiety;
- improving mood;
- managing panic;
- processing trauma;
- increasing confidence;
- improving emotional regulation;
- developing healthier boundaries;
- understanding patterns in relationships;
- reducing avoidance;
- adjusting to a diagnosis;
- improving day-to-day functioning.
Goals are reviewed throughout therapy and can be adjusted as your needs change.
5. Developing an individual therapy plan
There is no single approach that suits everyone. Joanne will tailor therapy to your needs, preferences and goals.
The work may draw upon different evidence-based psychological approaches, depending on the presenting difficulty and clinical assessment.
This may include:
- cognitive behavioural strategies;
- compassion-focused approaches;
- trauma-informed therapy;
- mindfulness-based techniques;
- emotional-regulation strategies;
- psychoeducation;
- behavioural approaches;
- acceptance-based methods;
- systemic or relational thinking;
- EMDR where clinically appropriate.
The approach will be explained clearly so that you understand why particular strategies are being suggested.
6. Ongoing therapy sessions
Sessions provide a regular and confidential space to explore difficulties and practise new skills.
Therapy may involve:
- discussing recent experiences;
- identifying patterns;
- exploring thoughts and emotions;
- understanding triggers;
- developing coping strategies;
- practising grounding or regulation techniques;
- reviewing progress;
- trying tasks or strategies between sessions.
You will not be expected to discuss anything before you feel ready. Therapy should be collaborative, and you can raise concerns or ask questions at any stage.
7. Reviewing progress
Progress will be reviewed throughout therapy.
This may include considering:
- what has changed;
- which strategies have been helpful;
- whether the original goals remain relevant;
- any barriers to progress;
- whether further sessions are needed;
- how improvements can be maintained.
Therapy does not always progress in a straight line. Difficult periods can occur, particularly when exploring painful experiences. Regular reviews help ensure that the work remains safe, relevant and helpful.
How long does psychological therapy take?
The number of sessions varies depending on:
- the nature and duration of the difficulties;
- the person’s goals;
- whether there are several overlapping concerns;
- current life circumstances;
- previous experiences;
- the type of therapy being offered;
- progress during treatment.
Some people benefit from a short period of focused therapy, while others require longer-term support.
The expected approach will be discussed during the initial stages, but therapy length may be reviewed as the work progresses.
How long is each therapy session?
Therapy sessions are commonly around 50 minutes, although the length may vary depending on the service, age of the client and clinical circumstances.
The appointment duration will be confirmed when the session is arranged.
Is therapy confidential?
Psychological therapy is confidential, and information is handled in accordance with professional and data-protection requirements.
There are limited circumstances in which information may need to be shared, such as where there is a serious concern about:
- a person’s immediate safety;
- the safety of another person;
- safeguarding a child or vulnerable adult;
- a legal requirement to disclose information.
The boundaries of confidentiality will be explained clearly at the beginning of therapy.
Therapy for neurodivergent clients
Autistic people and people with ADHD may experience psychological distress differently and may require adjustments to traditional therapy.
Therapy can be adapted through:
- clear and direct communication;
- predictable session structures;
- written or visual information;
- additional processing time;
- attention to sensory needs;
- shorter or longer pauses;
- reduced reliance on abstract language;
- consideration of masking and burnout;
- practical strategies for executive functioning;
- recognition of neurodivergent identity and strengths.
The aim is not to teach a person to appear less neurodivergent. Therapy should support wellbeing, self-understanding, autonomy and sustainable ways of living.
Psychological therapy following an ADHD or autism diagnosis
Receiving a diagnosis can provide clarity, but it can also bring a period of adjustment.
People may revisit earlier experiences, relationships, education or employment through a new perspective. They may feel relief, grief, anger, validation or uncertainty.
Therapy can help individuals:
- understand what the diagnosis means personally;
- process emotional reactions;
- develop self-compassion;
- recognise the effects of masking;
- establish realistic expectations;
- identify helpful adjustments;
- strengthen communication;
- manage anxiety or burnout;
- build a positive and authentic sense of identity.
Where practical information is the main need, post-diagnostic support may also be recommended.
In-person, online and telephone therapy
Appointments may be available:
- in person;
- online by secure video;
- by telephone where appropriate.
The most suitable format will depend on the type of therapy, clinical need, privacy, accessibility and personal preference.
The practice is situated on the first floor and does not currently have step-free access. Online or telephone sessions may therefore provide a more accessible alternative for some clients.
Self-funded and insurer-funded therapy
Self-funded therapy sessions are paid by bank transfer, normally at least 48 hours before the appointment.
Joanne Wright Psychology also works with:
- Bupa;
- AXA Health;
- Aviva.
Clients using private health insurance should contact their insurer before therapy begins to:
- confirm that treatment is covered;
- obtain an authorisation code;
- confirm the number of approved sessions;
- check whether a policy excess applies.
Insurance cover is subject to the terms of the individual policy.
Cancellation policy
We understand that life can be unpredictable. However, at least 48 hours’ notice is normally required to cancel or rearrange a therapy session.
Appointments cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice may be charged because the time has been reserved specifically for you.
Why choose Joanne Wright Psychology?
Joanne provides psychological therapy within a professional, compassionate and confidential practice.
The approach includes:
- therapy tailored to the individual;
- evidence-based psychological care;
- clear explanations;
- collaborative goal-setting;
- neurodiversity-affirming practice;
- trauma-informed support;
- respect for personal choice and pace;
- regular review of progress;
- support for children, young people and adults.
The aim is to help clients feel understood, develop greater insight and make changes that are meaningful within their own lives.
Taking the first step
Contacting a psychologist can feel daunting, particularly when you have been managing difficulties alone for a long time.
You do not need to know exactly what type of therapy you require or explain everything in your initial message. Begin by briefly describing the support you are seeking, and Joanne can help you consider the most appropriate next step.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psychological Therapy
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Therapy may be helpful if you feel anxious, low, overwhelmed, stuck or affected by difficult experiences. You do not need to be in crisis or have a formal diagnosis. An initial consultation can help determine whether psychological therapy is suitable for your needs.
Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?
No. Psychological therapy is based on your experiences, difficulties and goals rather than on whether you have a formal diagnosis.
What happens during the first therapy session?
The first session usually involves discussing what has brought you to therapy, relevant background information, how the difficulties affect your life and what you hope to change. Joanne will explain the available options and agree the next steps with you.
Will I have to talk about things I am not ready to discuss?
No. Therapy should proceed at a manageable pace. You will not be expected to share detailed information before you feel ready, and you can ask to pause or change direction at any time.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on your needs, goals and the nature of the difficulties. Some people benefit from short-term focused therapy, while others require longer-term support. Progress will be reviewed collaboratively.
How long does a therapy session last?
Sessions are usually around 50 minutes, although this may vary depending on the service and individual circumstances.
Is psychological therapy confidential?
Yes. Therapy is confidential, subject to limited exceptions involving serious safety, safeguarding or legal concerns. These boundaries will be explained at the beginning of therapy.
Can children have psychological therapy?
Yes. Therapy can be adapted for children and may include age-appropriate discussion, visual tools, creative activities and practical strategies. Parent or carer involvement will depend on the child’s age and needs.
Do parents attend their child’s sessions?
Parents may be involved in the assessment, goal-setting and review process. Whether they remain in individual sessions depends on the child’s age, needs and the purpose of therapy.
Can teenagers attend therapy confidentially?
Young people can be offered an appropriate level of privacy, subject to their age, understanding, safeguarding requirements and parental responsibility. Confidentiality will be explained clearly to both the young person and their parent or carer.
Do you provide therapy for autistic people and people with ADHD?
Yes. Therapy can be adapted to communication, sensory, executive-function and emotional-regulation needs. The approach is neurodiversity-affirming and does not seek to remove harmless autistic or ADHD characteristics.
Can therapy help after an autism or ADHD diagnosis?
Yes. Therapy may help people understand the diagnosis, process emotional reactions, develop self-compassion, address anxiety or burnout and identify strategies that better reflect their needs.
What is the difference between psychological therapy and counselling?
Both can provide valuable emotional support. Psychological therapy delivered by a psychologist may involve a detailed psychological formulation and the integration of several evidence-based therapeutic approaches according to the person’s needs.
What is the difference between therapy and EMDR?
Psychological therapy is a broad term covering different approaches to emotional and behavioural difficulties. EMDR is a specific structured therapy used primarily for trauma and distressing memories. Joanne will discuss which approach appears most appropriate.
Are online therapy appointments available?
Online appointments may be available where clinically appropriate and where you have access to a private and suitable space.
Can I have therapy by telephone?
Telephone sessions may be available in some circumstances. Suitability will depend on your needs and the type of therapy being provided.
Do you accept private health insurance?
Yes. Joanne works with Bupa, AXA Health and Aviva for eligible insurer-funded therapy. You will need to obtain an authorisation code and confirm your cover before treatment begins.
How do I pay for self-funded therapy?
Payment is made by bank transfer and should normally be received at least 48 hours before the session.
What happens if I need to cancel?
At least 48 hours’ notice is normally required to cancel or rearrange an appointment. Late cancellations may be charged in accordance with the practice cancellation policy.
What if therapy is not helping?
You are encouraged to discuss any concerns openly. The goals, approach and progress can be reviewed, and alternative options or referrals may be considered where appropriate.
How do I arrange an appointment?
Contact Joanne Wright Psychology with a brief description of the support you are looking for. You will then receive information about availability, fees and the most appropriate next step.
Your wellbeing matters
Let’s take the first step together
We are here to support you on your journey. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing personalised care that meets your unique needs, helping individuals and families thrive. Take a moment to reach out to us.
